(17-22) THE REIGN OF MENAHEM. HIS TRIBUTE TO PUL, KING OF ASSYRIA.

(17) Reigned ten years.--And some months over. (Comp. 2Kings 15:23.)

Verse 17. - In the nine and thirtieth year of Azariah King of Judah began Menahem the son of Gadi to reign over Israel (comp. ver. 13, and the comment), and reigned ten years in Samaria. So Josephus ('Ant. Jud.,' 9:11. § 1).

15:8-31 This history shows Israel in confusion. Though Judah was not without troubles, yet that kingdom was happy, compared with the state of Israel. The imperfections of true believers are very different from the allowed wickedness of ungodly men. Such is human nature, such are our hearts, if left to themselves, deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. We have reason to be thankful for restraints, for being kept out of temptation, and should beg of God to renew a right spirit within us.In the nine and thirtieth year of Azariah king of Judah began Menahem the son of Gadi to reign over Israel,.... Shallum reigning but one month, both their reigns began the same year.